Here we suggest some methods you can use to learn new vocabulary.
When you see a new vocabulary item (new word), always ask these questions:
Is it positive, neutral or negative?
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Beautiful is a positive word Ugly is a negative word Negotiate is not positive or negative, so it's neutral |
Is it formal or informal (casual)?
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Cool is a casual word Negotiate is a formal word |
Is it a vocabulary item or an Idiom?
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What did you do? (uses vocabulary) What did you get up to? (uses an idiom / idiomatic phrase) |
Does the word have a prefix or suffix that you know? (may give you a hint)
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Prefix: Unhappy, unfriendly ('un' often a negative prefix) Suffix: Careless, thoughtless ('less' often a negative suffix) If you see a new vocabulary item, such as 'undisciplined', you can take a guess that it may be a negative word from looking at the negative prefix, even if you do not know what the word means. |
Is it a noun, adjective, verb or adverb?
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Can the word be used only as a noun? Can the word be used as both a verb and an adjective? Can the word by used as an adverb? |
Which context / situation should the word be used in?
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'Negotiate' is a strong verb for formal business situations, such as negotiating a contract with a client. 'Negotiate' should not be used in social situations like two friends arguing over paying for drinks at KTV. |
Create your own example, preferably about your life, to demonstrate (show) understanding of the new word; this makes it easier to remember
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I negotiated my salary package with the HR Manager. I negotiate the delivery date and price with our clients. |